What Happened to the Diagnostics?
Diagnostic testing is the mainstay of veterinary medicine. Diagnostics are used to determine the underlying cause of illness and suggest the correct path for treatment. Diagnostic testing may include bloodwork, radiographs (x-rays), ultrasound, fecal exams,...
Special Ingredient Saturday – Powdered Cellulose
Recently, clients have asked me to review their food labels and one ingredient has been showing up frequently is powdered cellulose. What the heck it that? This hard to understand definition is put forth by the organization, AAFCO (look on your food bag) that...
Special Ingredient Saturday – Brown Rice
Brown rice provides a quality source of fiber as well as a great source of other nutrients and phytonutrients. Brown rice is lightly processed (removing only the outermost layer—the hull), allowing it to retain high levels of Vitamin B3, B1, B6, manganese, and...
I Just Saw Something on Social Media About Leptospirosis in Dogs. Do I Need to be Worried?
The media, whether it's a social or not, definitely knows how to create hype. A review of the biology of leptospirosis infection as well as the efficacy of the vaccine will help the pet owner debunk the current media-stirred frenzy. First, leptospirosis,...
Special Ingredient Saturday – Aloe Vera
Ingredient Spotlight: Aloe Vera Botanical Name: Aloe barbadensis Origin: Northern Africa Texture: Thin, clear liquid (Aloe vera gel has a clear, thick gelatinous consistency) Extraction Method: Scraped from the inner filet of the plant leaves Aloe vera is widely known...
Special Ingredient Saturday – Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a rich source of B-complex vitamins, Vitamin D, A, and C. Animal studies have shown that mushrooms help cancerous tumors and also serve as a cancer preventive.
Tips to Help Your Pets Move Well with Your Family
Moving can be both exciting and stressful - new opportunities and many steps to complete lead to this mixed situation. Moving with pets can be an additional consideration. Because pets are part of the family, they are included in the move, not left behind....
Special Ingredient Saturday – Chicken Liver
Chicken liver provides a quality source of Vitamin A, folate, Vitamin B12, and iron. Organic liver, if available, is best.
Married with Children…and a New Pet
There’s a lot to consider regarding bringing a new (or first) pet into your household. Should you get one? What kind should you get? And what else should you know? I want to tackle all of these “NEW PET” questions right here and now: First, you have to realize that...
Special Ingredient Saturday – Coconut Oil
Studies have shown that consuming coconut oil can help humans resist viruses and bacteria that cause illness. Coconut oil also contains medium chain triglyceride fats, which have been shown to aid the liver in the efficient burning of energy. While little to no...